City of Columbus

New construction, additions, structural alterations, accessory structures. Confirm specifics with City Hall.

• Exempt Agricultural exemption: State building code exempts agricultural structures. Confirm any local exemptions directly with City Hall.

Note: Columbus is one of North Dakota's smallest incorporated cities. Confirm all exemptions and requirements directly with City Hall.

Building code

If Columbus elects to enforce a building code, it must use the ND State Building Code (2024 IBC/IRC/IMC/IFGC/IECC/IEBC with ND amendments, effective January 1, 2026). Confirm enforcement posture with the City Auditor at (701) 334-3152.

Owner-builder

North Dakota does not require an owner-contractor license for owner-occupied residential work.

Contractor requirements

Hired contractors must hold an ND contractor license for work over $4,000 (NDCC §43-07). Licensed electricians required under the ND State Electrical Board; licensed plumbers under the ND State Plumbing Board.

Source: City of Columbus — City Hall ↗

1. 01
   Download the building permit application from https://cityofcolumbusnd.com/building-permits-and-inspections or request one at City Hall.
2. 02
   Complete the form with project details and submit in person or by mail to PO Box 27, Columbus, ND 58727.
3. 03
   Contact City Hall at (701) 939-5000 or the City Auditor at (701) 334-3152 for questions and to confirm fees.
4. 04
   Pay applicable fee and receive permit before starting work.
5. 05
   Contact City Maintenance at (701) 334-3828 or City Hall to arrange any required inspections.

Typical processing time: Contact City Hall for current processing timeline; very small staff with minimal capacity.

Source: City of Columbus — City Hall ↗

• (701) 939-5000 (phone)

Typical sequence: Confirm required inspection stages with City Hall based on project type.

Source: City of Columbus — City Hall ↗